Iranian authorities have started transferring inmates back to Evin prison, a notorious detention center in Tehran heavily damaged by an Israeli airstrike in June 2025, state media reported. The official IRNA news agency announced on Friday that the first group of prisoners was relocated from another correctional facility in the capital, with more transfers planned in the coming days. The decision has raised concerns about human rights violations and the safety of the reconstructed facility, long viewed as a symbol of political repression in Iran.

While the number of transferred prisoners was not disclosed, IRNA stated that new facilities were built at Evin to house the returning inmates. During the transfer, five prisoners reportedly resisted wearing mandatory handcuffs. State media claimed the situation was resolved “without any conflict and in peace,” but allegations of violence have emerged. Fakhrolsadat Mohtashamipour, wife of prominent activist Mostafa Tajzadeh, posted on social media that her husband and six other prisoners were beaten by law enforcement to enforce compliance.

The Israeli airstrike on Evin was part of a 12-day bombardment campaign that killed around 1,100 people across Iran, with Iranian retaliatory strikes leaving 28 dead in Israel. Iranian officials reported that the Evin strike killed 71 people, including prison staff, soldiers, inmates, and visiting family members, though local media initially cited a death toll of 80. Authorities confirmed five inmates died in the attack. Israel’s rationale for targeting the prison remains unclear. The Israeli Defence Ministry stated that 50 aircraft dropped 100 munitions on military targets, guided by “high-quality and accurate intelligence.” The New York-based Centre for Human Rights condemned the strike, arguing it violated international humanitarian law by failing to distinguish between civilian and military targets.

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Evin prison has long faced criticism from human rights groups for its harsh conditions and use as a detention center for political dissidents, journalists, and activists. The June airstrike caused significant structural damage, leading to the escape of 75 prisoners, of whom 48 have been recaptured or returned voluntarily, according to officials. The decision to reopen Evin has fueled debate about the government’s priorities, with critics calling for improved prison conditions and accountability for alleged mistreatment.

Human rights advocates are demanding transparency regarding the treatment of transferred prisoners and the safety of the rebuilt facilities. The controversy surrounding Evin’s reopening highlights ongoing tensions between Iran and Israel, as well as concerns about the treatment of political prisoners in the Islamic Republic.

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